He runs PT-6's which are small turbines getting about 750HP each. Boat runs around 120-125MPH when all is working right.

Here is a video of Gardner spooling up.

[YOUTUBE]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5d0XPk7oWc[/YOUTUBE]

so whats the gain on running 750hp turbines compaired to a set of 750hp big blocks?

Gardner told me he built it to have something different in 1998. He is not very conventional... Have you seen his tractor!!!

http://www.pulltown.com/1999/general.jpg


Back then it was the fastest on the Lake and was for a while.

There is a serious weight advantage Turbines are 200# each where big blocks with same HP are more like 1000# each. But hulls are designed to have big blocks in the back so the boat actually runs with the stern a little high. Something that could be resolved with the right props I guess but prop research is VERY expensive.

As it relates to practicality there is no advantage since you can get parts and service a big block a lot easier than a turbine. You'll hear that turbines run a tons of hours between overhauls but when they operate close to water specially salt water I think they don;t last that long.

A serious drawback also is that Turbines consume A LOT of fuel and they consume it whether your at Idle or at Full throttle.

I remember when i was younger i would hear talk of the fast turbine powered boat on the water....it was like a legend....thanks for the info...id rather hear a boat fire up with some nice big blocks....they make me tingle in my special spot:drink: